1992 Mazda 323 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1992 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 469 kg more than 1992 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mazda 323 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
